When must Miranda warnings be given?

• A. Before custodial interrogation; rights to remain silent and to counsel; statements may be used against you.
• B. Only at trial
• C. After charges
• D. Never

Answer: (A)

Miranda warnings are required whenever someone is in custody and being interrogated by police. When a person cannot freely leave and the police intend to ask questions about criminal activity, they must inform them of their rights: the right to remain silent, that anything they say can be used against them, the right to consult with an attorney and to have an attorney present during questioning, and that an attorney will be provided if they cannot afford one. A knowing and voluntary waiver of those rights is needed for any statements to be admissible in court. If the person isn’t in custody or the police are simply asking routine questions, warnings aren’t required; and if custodial interrogation occurs without warnings or continues after a request for counsel, the statements may be suppressed.

So the correct choice reflects that the warnings must be given before custodial interrogation and cover the rights to remain silent and to counsel, with the understanding that statements can be used against the person. The other options don’t fit because warnings are not reserved only for trial, not given after charges, and not never.